Global Burden of Cardiovascular Disease: What Should Be Expected in the Next 25 Years?

The aim of this review is to evaluate the evolving burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) between 2025 and 2050.

Between 1990-2023, CVD deaths increased from 13.1 million to 19.2 million, with prevalence rising from 311 to 626 million cases. Most CVD burden is attributable to modifiable risk factors, led by high systolic blood pressure (SBP). By 2050, CVD mortality will reach 35.6 million deaths annually, while prevalence will be at 1.14 billion cases globally. Metabolic, environmental and behavioral determinants will be key drivers, varying across regions according to sociodemographic index. Age-standardized mortality rates will decline, but absolute numbers of people living with CVD will rise due to population growth, aging, and possibly also improved access to care, especially in low-middle income countries. Prevention strategies, early detection and treatment, and better implementation of what is already known are necessary to address this burden.